Elk Refuge Plan has Some Innovations

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — A proposed conservation plan for the National Elk Refuge in northwest Wyoming includes building wildlife crossings over a highway, restoring beavers to wetlands and allowing wildfires to burn naturally.

The proposed plan, which was released this past week, outline goals for the refuge over the next 15 years.

The 306-page document addresses all aspects of management on the National Elk Refuge except for elk and bison

Spokeswoman Lori Iverson tells the Jackson Hole News & Guide (http://bit.ly/1rPJ8Xz) that elk and bison have a separate plan.

Elk refuge managers are fielding public comment until Oct. 10 on the latest plan.

Of the four options propose in the plan, the refuge is proposing to implement an alternative that promotes natural habitat and balanced public use.